Diabetes prevention and control in China

Abstract

Diabetes has been an epidemic in China. Developing economic levels, changes in diet, increasing of obesity, aging, and other factors are thought to be main contributors. In new situation for preventing and managing diabetes, several key issues should be seriously considered. We need to carry out high quality multi-center clinical researches based on a well-established nationwide collaborative research network; to identify and validate novel, sensitive and reliable diabetes risk factors and predictors using new data collection system, and the omics technology based on large-scale prospective cohorts with a long-term follow up; to reclassify diabetes based on molecular and functional annotation, and finally to in-depth understand and update pathogenesis of disease. Furthermore, using artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies combined with big medical and research data, etc., we should build new types of diabetes prediction models and systems, as well as machine-assisted diagnosis and treatment systems. Finally, we should carry out translational researches, as well as to develop early detection technologies and clinical pathways suitable for all levels of medical institutions. (Chin J Endocrinol Metab, 2017, 33: 181-184) Key words: Diabetes mellitus; Risk factor; Big data; Early detection and prevention; Nationwide collaborative research network